As the summer months approach and temperatures start to rise in Florida, it becomes increasingly important to keep your home cool, comfortable, and safe. It's no secret that Florida has some of the highest monthly utility costs in the country, so if you're looking for ways to save on cooling costs while still maintaining a pleasant temperature in your home, then this blog post is for you! We have compiled a list of five tips that you can use this summer to save money while keeping your home comfortable. Read on to learn more about each tip and how to ensure your home stays cool and comfortable without breaking the bank.
1) Replace your aging HVAC system.
If your air conditioning system is more than ten years old, it may be time to consider replacing it with a more efficient model. When considering a new system, look for one with an Energy Star label. These models are designed to run more efficiently than traditional systems and can help you save significantly on energy bills. Additionally, it may also be worth investing in a programmable thermostat, which can help you regulate the temperature in your home and reduce your energy consumption even further. This combination of equipment is optimal for providing the most comfort while using the least amount of energy, which saves you money in the long run. Installing a new HVAC system can be a significant expense, so be sure to look into energy efficiency tax credits or other incentives available in your area to help offset the cost. Ultimately, replacing your aging HVAC system is the best way to save money and make sure your home remains comfortable all summer long.
2) Use ceiling fans.
Ceiling fans are an easy and cost-effective way to circulate cool air throughout your home. When used properly, ceiling fans can make a room feel up to 8 degrees cooler. During the summer months, make sure to run your ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction to push cool air down. Ceiling fans use very little energy to do the job, so you can save on energy costs while still keeping your home comfortable. Used in combination with your HVAC system, you can maximize your home’s comfort and get the most out of your AC for the upcoming summer season.
3) Close off unused rooms.
If you have a room in your home that isn’t used often, it is best to close off the vents in those rooms. You can also close off the door or windows in that room. This will help keep cool air from escaping into that room and ensure that your HVAC system only focuses on cooling the rooms you are using. This can make a noticeable difference in your home’s cooling costs. Additionally, if the room has a window, you can install insulation to keep the cool air inside. In conclusion, closing off unused rooms is an easy and cost-effective way to save money on your cooling costs while keeping your home comfortable. Make sure to check all the rooms in your house and prioritize only cooling the ones you use most.
4) Use window treatments.
Window treatments can be an effective and cost-saving way to reduce the cooling required in your home. You can help keep your home cooler during the hot summer months by installing blinds, curtains, and shades. Dark-colored window treatments can absorb more heat than light-colored treatments, helping to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. You should also consider investing in window treatments with insulating properties. These products are designed to help keep the warm air outside while blocking out ultraviolet rays that can damage furniture and flooring inside the home. Finally, make sure to close the window treatments during the day when the sun is strongest, and keep them open when temperatures drop at night.
5) Set your thermostat.
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable while saving on cooling costs, setting your thermostat to no more than 10-15 degrees cooler than the outside temperature is a good place to start. When setting your thermostat, remember that 78 degrees are the general recommendation. Depending on the climate in your area, it may be necessary to adjust the temperature. In the summer months, 78 degrees may not be cool enough to keep your Florida home comfortable. If it is very hot outside, try to keep the inside of your home at least 10-15 degrees cooler than the outside temperature. This will help keep your house cool and minimize the strain on your air conditioner. You can also use a programmable thermostat to help regulate your home's temperature. A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day so that you can keep your home cooler during the day and warmer at night. This will help you save energy and money over time.
Fighting the summer heat is no easy task, but preparation is key. Planning and purchasing a new HVAC system, installing ceiling fans and window treatments, and adjusting your thermostat ahead of time will help keep your home comfortable while saving you money all season long. Our Elite team is here to help - we offer solutions that will fit the needs of your home without breaking the bank.